The Noosa Shire will be represented in all three senior rugby union grand finals this Sunday with the Ray White Noosa senior women’s team joining the men’s A grade and Reserve grade following an outstanding 37 – 0 victory over Nambour last weekend.
The Nambour side had gone through the season as firm favourites off the back of three successive premierships but were not prepared for the Dolphins onslaught in the elimination final.
Led by fearless captain Tess Evans, the Dolphins women put on a defensive and attacking display not seen this year.
“The girls were fantastic on the weekend and have come so far this year. Many are in their first season of rugby, and their development has been inspiring,” coach Damien Cogill said.
“We were by no means perfect last weekend, and we need to address a few elements of our game, especially our effort at the breakdown; Caboolture will cause us no end of trouble if we don’t get that right.”
Leading into the season decider, Dolphins Head Coach Jim McKay is extremely proud of the clubs’ efforts in 2025.
“Having all three senior teams in the grand finals is a thrill for our club, and hosting the games is terrific as we haven’t done so since 2020. We have a great supporter base, and the players are looking forward to running onto the field for them,” McKay said.
“With the men’s teams, we train all season together, and that has not only provided us with truly bonded group, but we have also been able to move players in and out of the teams fairly seamlessly, so having both fighting for premiership glory will be a great day.”
McKay, whilst happy with the balance of his team, is also very wary of the University opposition who have proven in their last two outings, and the last 5 years of grand final appearances, that they are ready to fight.
“We know we are in for a battle, both teams will think that, and both are good enough to take out the big prize. It will come down to who is able to play at their best for the longest period of the match. What I do know is that we are in it to compete not just to participate,” McKay said.
The Dolphins reserve grade grand final appearance is an opportunity for players to celebrate a great season according to coach Kyle Shapland.
“At the beginning of the year, we discussed how important it was for our club to have a strong reserve grade side, how it pushes and supports A Grade, and builds the quality of our Friday night comp team. One of the highlights for me has been supporting and watching players in their pursuit of an A Grade jersey, and how seamlessly they have adapted,” Shapland said.
“We finished second on the table after the round matches and I know the boys have a burning desire to make one final statement this Sunday as they strive for the prize.”
The Ray White Dolphins senior women’s captain Tess Evans swells with pride as she reflects on the season to date.
“To see so many young girls in their first season step up and perform at the level they have reached is just amazing,” Evans said.
“There were times during the season where we just could not get a team together with injuries and other absences, but we have really gelled in the last month, having to take the long road into the grand final finishing third. Last weekend was a major achievement beating Nambour, but Caboolture will be another level when it comes to a challenge. They are big and fast and skilled across the paddock.”
With the weather prediction for Sunday looking perfect, Dolphins president Chris Burton could not be happier.
“Grand Finals back are Noosa brings with it a special feeling. Our supporters are the best on the coast and for them to head to their home ground for the decider is something that you never tire of. We have been very lucky to host many grand finals over our forty-year history, but it has been too long since we last did it. For us to do so in the 40th year celebration, and to have all three senior teams on the field is a dream come true. Our players and support staff, our volunteer ground maintenance crew headed by Kieran Kearney and Barry Postle have worked so hard this year, so let’s hope they can all celebrate clearing the last hurdle. It is very hard to get into a grand final, but it is even harder to win them,” Burton added.
With a round washout early in the season, this year’s grand final has had to be moved to a Sunday to avoid a clash with the junior finals.
Grand Final Action at Sunshine Beach on Sunday:
• 11.30 Senior Women Noosa v Caboolture
• 1.30 Reserve Grade Noosa v University
• 3.30 A Grade Noosa v University
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